Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro
The Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden, located in the South Zone's Jardim Botânico district, is a renowned green space hosting approximately 6,500 plant species, including endangered varieties. Established in 1808 by King John VI of Portugal for acclimatizing exotic spices, it spans 54 hectares and features diverse flora such as 900 palm tree varieties, bromeliads, orchids, carnivorous plants, and cacti. The garden is notable for its historical monuments, artistic sculptures, and archaeological sites, including the cast-iron Fountain of the Muses from Derby, UK. It lies beneath Corcovado Mountain, near the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, with about 40% of its area cultivated and the rest covered by Atlantic Forest. The garden also supports a leading botanical research institute housing Brazil's most comprehensive botanical library and herbarium. Visitors can enjoy the Avenue of Royal Palms, the Japanese Garden, and observe local wildlife like toucans, hawks, capuchin monkeys, and marmosets. The garden is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and protected national heritage site, blending conservation, education, and public enjoyment.
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Astuce: Visit during daylight hours to fully explore the extensive grounds and diverse plant collections. Weekdays may be less crowded. Consider purchasing tickets in advance if available to avoid lines. The garden offers discounts for students and seniors. Guided tours and educational programs enhance the experience. Avoid visiting on December 25 and January 1, when the garden is closed.
Faits intéressants
- •The Avenue of Royal Palms features 134 palms descended from a single original tree called Palma Mater, destroyed by lightning.
- •The garden houses Brazil's largest botanical library with over 32,000 volumes and the country's largest herbarium with approximately 600,000 dried plant samples.
- •The painted cast-iron Fountain of the Muses was imported from Derby, UK, and originally belonged to Henrique Lage's villa.
- •The garden supports 140 bird species, including the endangered white-necked hawk, and is home to capuchin monkeys and tufted-eared marmosets.
- •Only about 40% of the garden is cultivated; the remainder is Atlantic Forest rising up the slopes of Corcovado Mountain.
Histoire
Founded in 1808 by King John VI of Portugal, the garden initially served as an acclimatization site for spices like nutmeg and cinnamon imported from the West Indies.
It opened to the public in 1822, the year Brazil gained independence, and was later named Imperial Jardim Botânico.
Over time, it evolved from a royal horticultural project into a major botanical research center.
The garden's administration transitioned through various government ministries, and it was enhanced by directors such as Friar Leandro do Sacramento, who improved plant cataloging and landscaping.
In 1992, it was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve, reflecting its ecological and cultural importance.
Guide du lieu
Avenue of Royal Palms19th century
A striking 750-meter long pathway lined with 134 Roystonea oleracea palm trees, all descendants of the original Palma Mater tree, creating a majestic entrance into the garden.
Fountain of the Muses19th century
A painted cast-iron fountain made in Derby, England, originally part of the landscaping of Henrique Lage's villa, now a central artistic feature of the garden.
Japanese Garden
A tranquil garden area designed in traditional Japanese style, featuring native plants and water elements, offering a peaceful retreat within the botanical grounds.
Victoria Lilies at Lago Frei Leandro
A pond showcasing giant Victoria water lilies, a spectacular botanical attraction named after Friar Leandro do Sacramento, the garden's first director.
Research Institute and Botanical Library
The garden's research center conducts extensive botanical studies and hosts Brazil's most complete botanical library with over 32,000 volumes and a herbarium of 600,000 samples.
Contact
Téléphone: (21) 3874-1808